Only the best for the dog – relating to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but above all, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrients and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which in turn food is ideal at which age? Is dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What may cause deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best meat based dry dog food, we present 10 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and make clear how much food a puppy needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot endure and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best meat based dry dog food:
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Scrumbles Natural Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Recipe with Fresh Salmon, for...
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£10.00
£12.00 -
Vegan dog food from Benevo. Complete vegan dry dog food. Wheat free dried...
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£11.99
£13.99 - HOWND Complete Plant Powered Superfood Hemp Protein and Moringa Adult Vegan... — £14.89
- Edgard & Cooper Grain Free Adult Dog Dry Food - Venison & Duck 2.5kg - Fresh... — £15.99
- Skinner's Field & Trial Complete Dry Adult Working Dog Food Salmon and Rice,... — £15.99
- Wagg Complete Beef and Veg dry dog food, 12kg — £26.13
- The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Small or Medium... — £37.70
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V-Dog Vegan Dog Food. Complete dry dog food. Crunchy Nuggets non-gm,...
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£52.97
£58.99 - Organic vegan dog food from Benevo. Complete meat-free dry dog food. Wheat...
- Wagg Kennel Beef and Veg Complete Dry Dog Food, 15 kg
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best meat based dry dog food of 2024. We would recommend using V-Dog Vegan Dog Food. Complete dry dog food. Crunchy Nuggets non-gm, hypoallergenic kibble for large and small breeds. Meat-free, holistic dried food for over 40 years. 15Kg as it is a hight quality product.
Top 10 Best meat based dry dog food
Best meat based dry dog food
V-Dog Vegan Dog Food. Complete dry dog food. Crunchy Nuggets non-gm, hypoallergenic kibble for large and small breeds. Meat-free, holistic dried food for over 40 years. 15Kg
£52.97
Features
- Complete Dog Food: V-Dog Crunchy Nuggets contains all the nutrients an adult dog needs to thrive including a balanced range of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. Our vegan dog foods were established in 1980 in the UK and is free from meat by-products and dairy.
- Sensitive Dog Food: Our meat free and dairy free recipe is also free from some allergens including meat proteins making V-dog a hypoallergenic option for dogs with a sensitive tummy.
- Formulated by Animal Nutritionists: Dogs are omnivores and can survive on both plant and animal based diets, V-dog is formulted by professional animal nutritionists to allow dogs to thrive, rather than just survive, on a meat-free diet.
- Certified Veggie Dog Food: V-dog is checked and certified by the UK Vegan Society and Vegetarian Society. V-dog is also a PeTA approved cruelty-free brand.
HOWND Complete Plant Powered Superfood Hemp Protein and Moringa Adult Vegan Dry Dog Food 2KG
Features
- NUTRIONALLY COMPLETE: All of our plant based foods are 100% nutritionally complete and perfectly balanced meaning that no further supplementation is required. We've blended the finest hemp plant with wholesome vegan ingredients to create a dry dog food that's rich in Omega fatty acids for a shiny coat and strong joints.
- 100% HYPOALLERGENIC: Sensitive dogs rejoice, as our hypoallergenic recipe ensures a happy tummy and optimal well-being. Our food is naturally Hypoallergenic and free from all common allergens. NO GMO, NO Wheat, NO Soya, NO Fillers, NO Additives, NO Preservatives, NO Artificial Colours/Flavours and NO Meat.
- MEAT FREE, HIGH IN PROTEINS: Transition your furry friend to a plant-based diet with our Hownd Vegan Dog Food. Packed with hemp's goodness and vegan ingredients for essential vitamins, it's the perfect vegan hypoallergenic dry dog food to keep them wagging with joy. Our plant based dog food is 100% meat, dairy and wheat free and contains only clean vegan ingredients.
- CHOOSE HEALTH, CHOOSE COMPASSION: Our hemp dog food is a sustainable, cruelty-free option that's kind to both your pet and the planet. With the benefits of vegan ingredients for digestive health and a hypoallergenic formula, our vegan dry dog food is a wholesome and delicious choice for for all dogs aged 9 months and older.
- BRITISH COMPANY: Hownd is a UK company and it's the most ethically certified, adopted and loved by professionals. We're here to help dog owners keep their dogs healthy and happy by creating super products to make dogs feel and look super. Because when your best friend feels super, you do too.
Organic vegan dog food from Benevo. Complete meat-free dry dog food. Wheat free dried kibble, hypoallergenic & healthy. Holistic & non-gm 15kg
Features
- Complete Organic Dog Food | Benevo Dog organic dog food contains all the nutrients an adult dog needs including a wide range of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids, without the need for supplements or slaughterhouse meat. Benevo Dog Organic is a certified organic and vegan dog food.
- Sensitive Dog Food | Our wheat free, meat free and dairy free recipe is free from common allergens including meat proteins and wheat gluten making it a great hypoallergenic option for dogs with a sensitive tummy.
- Wheat Free Recipe | Benevo Dog Organic dried adult dog food is formulated to meet the European nutritional levels set out by FEDIAF making it suitable for most dog breeds. Our ingredients are carefully milled before mixing to avoid whole grains which are hard to digest. An added Prebiotic also aids digestion and omega oils provide a source of essential fatty acids.
- Is Meat Free Dog Food Natural? | Dogs are classed as omnivores, so like us humans, they can survive and thrive on a plant-based diet too. Studies suggest dogs split from wolves around 20,000-40,000 years ago and they were domesticated between 15,000-30,000 year ago. So they have lived with humans co-existing on the same foods ever since. So yes, professional meat-free food for dogs is fine and as natural as giving them a name, buying them birthday presents and having them on a lead 🙂
- Why You're The Best! | Buying Benevo is a choice for a better and more sustainable World. That makes you our hero! As for Benevo Dog Organic: Made in the UK, Benevo Dog Organic has kept 1000's of dogs across the World happy and healthy for the last 15 years. Rated the most ethical dog food in Europe by Ethical Consumer Magazine. Vegan Society UK and Vegetarian Society UK Approved. PETA approved cruelty-free brand. Vegan owned company with an ethical company score of 100/100 every year since 2016
The Hunger of the Wolf Dry Dog Food - For Adult Dogs and Small or Medium Breeds - 14 Kilograms, Formula with Chicken, Vitamin C and Vitamin E
Features
- Ideal for adult dogs of small and medium breeds - the size, structure and shape of these kibbles are adapted to suit small and medium dog breeds.
- Healthy formula - contains essential amino acids for tissue recovery, all-round good health and also Vitamins E and C which increase immunity, enhance cell protection and regeneration.
- No added gluten, free of soya and chemical dyes. No artificial preservatives. Only natural antioxidants.
- The real label - 280 g of chicken meal in 1 kg of food corresponds to 1120 g of fresh meat. In The Hunger of The Wolf dog food we use a meal so we do not claim very high content of raw meat only to make the labels look much better to the consumer than they really are. Raw meat may contain 70%-90% water. For example chicken meal is simply fresh chicken that has already been cooked to remove moisture – this makes it a much more highly-concentrated source of protein.
- A delicious taste your dog will love - by creating this dog food we remembered about ancestors of dogs - wolves, which are true carnivores, therefore, the main ingredient of our food is always meat.
Vegan dog food from Benevo. Complete vegan dry dog food. Wheat free dried kibble, hypoallergenic & healthy. Holistic & non-gm 2kg bag
£11.99
Features
- [ NUTRITION YOU CAN TRUST ] With crucial fatty acids, prebiotics, and non-animal taurine, Benevo Vegan Dog Food is your one-stop solution for nurturing your dog’s growth. Plus, you’re supporting their well-being without the need for slaughterhouse meat!
- [ FOR SENSITIVE TUMS ] Our wheat-free, meat-free, and dairy-free recipe is designed with your dog's sensitive tummy in mind. Free from meat proteins & wheat gluten, this dog kibble is an ideal choice for pooches with dietary sensitivities.
- [ 27.5% PLANT-BASED PROTEIN ] Each bowl of pet food is packed with plant-based protein to fuel your dog’s active lifestyle. With 27.5% protein in every bowl, you can rely on Benevo dog food to keep noses wet & tails wagging.
- [ TRUSTED FOR OVER A DECADE ] Proudly made in the UK, Benevo Vegan Dog food is formulated to meet the European nutritional levels set out by FEDIAF, making it the perfect choice for your pampered pooch. With over 15 years experience, we put your dog’s health and happiness first.
- [ PETA & VEGAN SOCIETY APPROVED ] As a vegan-owned company, we are proud to be approved by PETA, the Vegan Society UK, and Vegetarian Society UK. Plus, we have consistently maintained an ethical company score of 100/100 since 2016!
Wagg Complete Beef and Veg dry dog food, 12kg
Features
- With added citrus antioxidants to help protect the immune system
- Omega oils for healthy skin and coat
- With prebiotics to help improve digestion
- With added yucca to help reduce flatulent odours
- With no artificial colours or flavours and no added sugar
Edgard & Cooper Grain Free Adult Dog Dry Food - Venison & Duck 2.5kg - Fresh Meat, High Protein, Hypoallergenic & Natural Ingredients
Features
- 2.5kg NATURALLY TASTY DOG FOOD: PACKED WITH LOTS OF FRESH MEAT filled with quality and tasty protein (no meat meal, no overprocessed or dried meat), Non-GMO - We cook ingredients with care to preserve their flavour and natural nutrients. Suitable for adult neutered or unneutered dogs of all breeds and sizes. With a GRAIN FREE and GLUTEN FREE range, our dry food is perfect for sensitive stomachs, and contains PRE-BIOTICS for a healthy gut.
- KIBBLES PACKED WITH FRESH MEAT: This grain free dog food recipe is rich in fresh & irresistibly tasty venison & free-run duck, a less common source of protein that also helps REDUCE SKIN IRRITATION and supports STRONG MUSCLES. In this recipe, APPLE, BEETROOT, PEAR, BLUEBERRY and COWBERRY provide FIBER, VITAMINS A, C, K, essential ANTIOXIDANTS, CALCIUM.
- A HEALTHY WELL BALANCED COMPOSITION : Our simple, healthy recipes are developed by experts to provide optimal nutrition from natural ingredients. It's as if your dog had his own personal trainer! For a healthy, complete and balanced diet, our tasty recipes include a tasty mix of fresh meat & nutritious offal, plus fibre-rich fruits & vegetables.
- EDGARD & COOPER'S VALUES: 01 JOYFUL FOOD: Our naturally, tasty recipes are packed with lots of fresh meat and healthy ingredients, cooked with care to preserve taste and nutrients 02 PLAY NICE WITH NATURE: From our paper-based packaging, to our commitment to achieve Zero Carbon by 2025, we're on a mission to be the world's most sustainable pet brand 03 FRIENDS STICK TOGETHER : We donate 1% of our sales to our INDEPENDENT FOUNDATION to end the suffering of dogs and cats worldwide.
- OUR ADVICE: 01 TRANSITION TO NATURAL FOOD : Over 4 days, gradually increase the amount of Edgard & Cooper food in his bowl, while decreasing the amount of regular food - 02 WATER : Make sure fresh water is available at all times, especially at meal times - 03 STORAGE : Close their kibble bag tightly and store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct light. Once opened, it will stay fresh for three months.
Scrumbles Natural Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Recipe with Fresh Salmon, for Adults and Senior Breeds, 2 kg Bag
£10.00
Features
- This complete dry dog food is made with 50% Salmon, essential vitamins and minerals and added probiotics
- It is made entirely of all natural ingredients, and has no added sugars, salts nor any derivatives, fillers or artificial nonsense
- If that wasn’t enough, this delicious grain free recipe is free from gluten AND contains slippery elm for sensitive tummies
- Scrumbles makes pet food that dogs love. We ONLY use responsibly sourced ingredients and human grade meat!
- Our delicious dog foods and treats are made in the UK and Ireland by our independent, family company and packed in recyclable packaging. Because we love animals as much as you do!
Skinner's Field & Trial Complete Dry Adult Working Dog Food Salmon and Rice, 2.5 kg
Features
- Fish based diet - suitable for sensitivities to meat
- Contains Scottish salmon
- Contains omega 3 and 6
- High levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for joints
- Our recommended feeding guide is 100gm per 8kg of target bodyweight, split into 2 meals per day
Features
- 1. SPECIALLY FORMULATED - Each biscuit contains a balance of protein and carbohydrates to provide energy for active canines.
- 2. VAT FREE - One of our popular diets offering a complete dry dog food ideal for all working dogs.
- 3. CRUNCHY KIBBLES - Wagg Kennel's crunchy kibbles make this food an excellent value option for working dogs.
- 4. TEETH & BONES - Our delicious Kennel food includes balanced Calcium & Vitamin D for your dog's healthy teeth & bones.
- 5. MADE IN UK - Wagg dry dog food is proudly made right here in the UK.
The particular best for the dog – according to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but especially, of course, food. The food is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrition and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have and in what quantity? Which in turn food is suitable where age? Is usually dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be provided? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pet dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and describe how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot tolerate and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Simply as every person has their own own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that will go into the dog’s bowl should come in according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age group also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their gastrointestinal system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs sugars, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. Older dogs have a slow metabolism and are no for a longer time as active. As a result, they require less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to break down and contain a whole lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food differ in words of composition, technique of development and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrition the dog needs on a daily basis. The percentage of proteins, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins varies based on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or wet food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the vital nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner mixes into the food or treats. The declaration shows what it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and grocery stores usually comes from business production. This kind of is the most frequent kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of business dog food use genetically modified raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long corner life. By exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years without any loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from grow, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or processed. The food should not contain any chemically synthesised additives. However , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dried out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should never contain numerous substances such as genetically altered ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover dissimilarities between the various natural dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been prepared. With the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the organic and natural food are 95 per cent organic. Whether it states “made with organic”, the product includes 70 per dollar natural ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This dog food will not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– An exclusive form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation stands for “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. Once barfing, the dog is fed raw fresh meat, often coupled with raw, pureed fruit or fruit and vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Because the meals are merged individually, barfing is far more suited to experienced dog owners who have studied the diet program of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This kind of is a declaration that should be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These kinds of are supposed to provide the food the smell and taste. Some dog lovers also avoid pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is created by first drying the raw materials and then grinding and combining them. A tool presses this mass through the openings of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other part. Through the dog food production process, temps of around 90 levels Celsius are made, which obviously contradicts the definition of cold depressing. However , temperatures are still significantly lower than those used in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your canine food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These need to be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During digesting, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Feed produced in this way swells considerably when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been busted down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food normally, little by little. In addition, the food includes more natural ingredients. If the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal area and an annoyed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is just an extra factor in determining the tolerability and quality of the food. The most important thing is the quality of the raw materials.
Which is better – damp food or dried out food?
There is moist and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food includes almost no water and therefore has a longer shelf life . usually several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew up more and thus train their teeth. Ingesting dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. To get dogs that drink little, feeding dried out food can become a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are fed only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- More affordable than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more green than refined food
Cons
- Often less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight faster if it is not a diet food
- Risk of mould or mite formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Frequently one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. A large number of dogs like moist food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for puppies – once opened up – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It must be used up within 2 days of opening. Beneath we have summarised the benefits and disadvantages of wet food:
Pros
- High popularity by most four-legged friends
- Packed in useful portions
- Mainly because of the high water content in wet food, the dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, moist food cannot be stored well
- Major dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to transport and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more powerful
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
This is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suitable for your dog. The dog eventually decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your puppy likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try out both types.
A few dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following applies to both types of food: It should just be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of the dog.
How much various meats and how many sugars and nutrients belong in dog food?
The caliber of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and proper diet. It is important that the dog food contains healthy ingredients and nutrients – no matter of whether it is wet food or dry food. The best composition of your dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged good friend.
How much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive tract is similar to those of predators. Therefore to start with, the supply of meat is important. Nevertheless , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive chemical can now break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
To start with, various meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for the muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves and to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are not as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts say that dog food should contain between 50 and 70 percent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only various meats for their four-legged friends, this may lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not seen in meat – for instance , vitamins and minerals found in vegetables and fruit, or fatty stomach acids from healthy oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbs. Wolves, for example, eat the stomach and intestinal items of prey animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and require it for their intestinal flora. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from herb waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or straw are often added to the feed. High-quality carbohydrates are found in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal body fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the meals should contain these substances only moderately. How much should be in the dog food will depend on how much the dog moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated oily acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency rations and are intended as a hold for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain condensed omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 natural oils, which are seen in fish, are extremely valuable for cellular metabolism.
What should maintain the dog food? Dog food should contain 50 to 70 pct lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there should be about 20 to 50 pct high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a maximum of 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as vitamin h or iron. Very good quality oils such as salmon olive oil or linseed fat improve nutrient consumption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coating and healthy pores and skin.
How can I recognise high-quality dog food?
Dog food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of manufacture or best-before time of the dog food
– Name of the foodstuff
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient types. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration prospect lists the individual natural materials, however, not their percentage. The open up declaration provides structure in % and the respective options of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term materials into individual groups. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed food, maize flour, maize gluten or grain. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but must not be included in too large quantities.
2. The substances in the supply are listed in descending order according to their quantity. The further forward an ingredient is listed on the label, the greater its proportion. Conversely, what this means is: Only a small proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down the list is included in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and vegetable content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavor enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism has no trouble digesting good dog food. Signs of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is outlined under the term “analytical ingredients”. We now have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and pet by-products indicates the meat content in the dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare exactly what is engaged. It can be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, dried meats, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Seafood and its by-products include fish fillets, our bones and fish heads.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They are to some extent health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and acidity regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform consistency of oil and water. Natural vitamin antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged good friend. They should be contained in the right composition, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and track elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal tract flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Physical additives are utilized to influence the appearance and taste of the dog food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight dogs suffer! Obesity is an expanding problem in dogs with serious health consequences. It can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes inflammation. Additionally, it may shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. At times the use of food items for deiting should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give puppies the necessary food. Just how much pet food a dog needs depends upon various factors. In addition to the breed, the next aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged good friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A dog that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories and has a slower metabolism. Appropriately, he needs less food.
Age: Younger dogs continue to be growing and are often more curious and lively. They usually have a higher energy requirement than old dogs. It really is advisable to reduce the quantity of food a little every year. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the era of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as soon as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Some diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These types of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, osteo-arthritis and diabetes. Once dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can climb or fall, changing energy needs. For example , dogs have different energy needs when they are conceived or change their coat.
To find out what amount of food is right for your dog, look at the caloric content of your dog food. A higher calorie content means a lower amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the next rules of thumb as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a regular activity level should be about two to three pct of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 pct of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that movements a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 pct of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 % of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is unsure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
Just how can I recognise a food allergy or intolerance?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of the allergy are, for example , stress, unwanted organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for example , me llaman, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain compound. A real food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Feasible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itchiness, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms might not exactly show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do not necessarily have to indicate an allergic reaction or intolerance. They can be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause cleared up with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergic reaction or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to carry out an exemption diet. However, this involves a number of effort.
What is an exemption diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and sugars. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged good friend has not eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. Following the food change, your canine is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition boosts and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, that could be the trigger for the allergic reactions. More than time, a list is made of substances that the dog can tolerate or that cause allergic reactions in him. An elimination diet is something that pet owners can do themselves. On the other hand, it is highly recommended to consult a professional or speak with the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is crucial during an exemption diet. The dog must not be given chews, treats or outstanding during this time period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should will no longer eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that the dog cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and all dog snacks between meals.
If practically nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it needs a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy no longer happen. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often contains grains. Included in this are wheat or grain, barley and rye, for example. Grains have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it causes obesity and sometimes to a problem with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of feed, it contains alternative ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also suited to more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily required to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. A few types of feed are also especially easy to break down. Such as maize and rice, for example. Sometimes, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without feed. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your dog a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that puppies can’t tolerate. Several of them are even poisonous for canines. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and raw pork. Onions can be fatal, with respect to the size of the onion and your canine. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If a dog consumes raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or unwanted wind. Raw pork could retain the Aujeszky computer virus, which in turn causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs must not eat include:
- Delicious chocolate
- Raw carrots
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- Fruits pits
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugar and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Consequently, caution is recommended in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should always be put in such a way that your dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the vet or the veterinary crisis service directly. At the same time, keep your dog in a secure environment. On the other hand, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It might be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that can occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive thirst
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is crucial to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything off of the side of the street.
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V-Dog Vegan Dog Food. Complete dry dog food. Crunchy Nuggets non-gm, hypoallergenic kibble for large and small breeds. Meat-free, holistic...
- Complete Dog Food: V-Dog Crunchy Nuggets contains all the nutrients an adult dog needs to thrive including a balanced range of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. Our vegan dog foods were established in 1980 in the UK and is free from meat by-products and dairy.
Video about best meat based dry dog food
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should I actually look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies need a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the situation after about 8 weeks. The components and elements of puppy dog food are specially suitable for growing puppies. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bones, muscles, coat and teeth first have to produce.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the puppy dog food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s digestive tract is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your canine food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions a couple of times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This is determined by the breed of dog: Up-and-coming small to medium breeds are considered grown ups from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for elderly people?
For small dogs, the difference in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large breeds are considered older at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age, the dog’s state of health is also an important criterion. It is a good idea to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be retained in an foolproof container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the meals can become “sticky” and lose its preference and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is based on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed whole food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, herbal oils and carbohydrates for a well-balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Nevertheless , you should advise yourself well or consult with experts.
What do We have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. In the event the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can easily suffer from intestinal problems, a few of which is often considerable. A period of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get accustomed to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as comes after: On day 1 and 2, replace about a 1 / 4 of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the third and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be three quarters. On day 7, the move is complete.
In the event that the dog acts sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the adaptation phase and improve the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food at all, it is obviously not ideal for him. In this case, you should look for an alternate.
What should I do if my dog does not like dry food?
In that case it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. If the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is easier to process. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with drenched dry food.
How fast do dogs digest dry food?
Canines usually need up to 14 hours to digest dry food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and scale the dog and the quality of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The quantity of food is also important. Small portions are broken down more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibers remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also results in faster digestion. Additionally , the more liquid the foodstuff is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are pet tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out creature experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a listing of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When may i start feeding a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is fed breast milk by its mother. Solid food is usually eaten by pups from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother continues to nourish her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it which includes liquid – for example with puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally will no longer provided with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a water until the pup is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does indeed it make sense?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than acquired food. However, it does have some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can determine for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners can include the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the planning and adapt the foodstuff to these and the dog’s flavor.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it might be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the foodstuff, you should study the several ingredients. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is recommended to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the net, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be consumed by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially ideal for dogs with allergies. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your dog. There is hypoallergenic dried out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Accordingly, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that the dog will not tolerate it and that hypersensitive reactions will take place.
Usually there is only one supply of necessary protein in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or drinking water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergic reactions. This happens when there exists a substance in the meals that the four-legged friend cannot endure.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is suited to four-legged friends with a very sensitive gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product can provide prevention of digestive problems.
